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Most of more popular shops have English speaking managers (KMan, 15M, One Spa, Phoenix come to mind). For those who can’t access them, here’s some recent photo posts from 15M and Phoenix. Phoenix

From ThecThaiger The parents of a 19 year old American boy who vanished in Phuket three weeks ago have turned to social media in a desperate bid to find him. He was last seen with his bicycle in the Mueang district of Phuket. The parents of the American teenager, Steven, turned to social media platforms, and The Thaiger today, March 10, in search of more information about their missing boy. Steven reportedly left his family home in Phuket on February 17 and never returned. The boy’s mother, Srj Snyder, revealed in a social media post that her son had been missing for about three weeks, and she and her husband were desperately seeking any clues about him. Steven was last seen with his black and blue bicycle in the Mueang district of Phuket. He was wearing a black T-shirt and green jeans, and he was also carrying a blue backpack with a black bottom. The missing American was known to enjoy adventure and outdoor activities. His mother disclosed that he loved fishing, woodcrafts, and other survivalist activities. He often visited shipyards or boat piers in the province, but she found no clues of him at any of these locations. https://thethaiger.com/news/phuket/19-year-old-american-man-missing-for-3-weeks-in-phuket

It’s a sad story of a blackmailed monk that reminds all of us that we often have no idea of who we’re dealing with on Grindr and other social media platforms. in this situation, the monk responded to a request to send explicit video to a scammer who proceeded to blackmail him. The koi stress caused the monk to take his own life. https://thethaiger.com/news/national/thai-monk-commits-suicide-after-being-blackmailed-with-explicit-video

PFC rules specify that all comers are welcome and survival does not disqualify applicant.

Phoenix25 is LINE account. Phone 0622837447 ALL shops discussed in this thread in Saphan Kwai. This map may help orient you to the are. #1 is BTS Saphan Kwai station. the following shops are all located within less than 5-minute walk: K-Man, 15M, Phetboy, GBeat. The following are located by small blue dots on Sutthisan Rd. (Left to right): One Spa, BT Massage, KK Massage, Home Spa. Phoenix is indicated by small red dot on Inthamara Soi 25 (about 25-minute walk from BTS or short taxi or motorbike ride). 27M (not marked) is located shortly after Inthamara 25 and diagonally opposite Home Spa.

LINE feed still works

Close but no cigar

From Washington Post Rodrigo Duterte, the former Philippine president who has been accused of crimes against humanity and the extrajudicial killings of thousands of people during his war on drugs, was arrested Tuesday in Manila under a warrant issued by the International Criminal Court, the government reported. Duterte, 79, was detained by the Philippine police shortly after flying into the country from Hong Kong at approximately 9:20 a.m. A former lawyer turned populist leader, Duterte served as president between 2016 and 2022, a period in which he openly advocated for executing alleged criminals and oversaw the killings of thousands in what authorities portrayed as drug-related cases. On the campaign trail and in office, Duterte styled himself as a strongman who would prevent the Philippines from further cascading into a purported narco-state. In 2016, he said he would be “happy to slaughter” drug addicts for the sake of his country, drawing a comparison to Hitler. It’s unclear how many people were killed during his war on drugs, but Human Rights Watch estimated in 2018 that about 12,000 Filipinos had died since he took office less than two years before and attributed at least 2,555 killings directly to the Philippine National Police. Some estimates put the number at as many as 20,000 to 30,000 victims during the six-year war on drugs. Continues at https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/former-philippine-president-rodrigo-duterte-arrested-under-icc-warrant/ar-AA1AFn7J

From AP Tesla tumbles again Shares of Tesla slid again Monday as confidence in Elon Musk's electric car company continues to disintegrate following a post-election “Trump bump.” Tesla shares tumbled 15.4%, to $222.15. That's the lowest Tesla shares have traded since late October, reflecting investors' newfound pessimism as the automaker's sales crater around the globe. Monday's decline, Tesla's steepest since September 2020, came with Wall Street in the midst of a sell-off caused by uncertainty over the Trump administration's trade policies. Many analysts have attributed Tesla's sagging stock — and auto sales — to Musk's support of President Donald Trump and other far right candidates around the world. Musk pumped $270 million into Trump's campaign heading into the 2024 election, appeared on stage with him and cheered Trump's victory over Democratic candidate Kamala Harris in November. Tesla stock soared to $479 per share by mid-December, but have since tumbled back to earth, losing 40% of their value.

From Reuters HANOI (Reuters) - Vietnam expects to sign pacts with the United States this week after its trade minister meets U.S. trade and energy officials, according to a government document reviewed by Reuters. The step comes after weeks of conciliatory messages Vietnam has sent Washington in an effort to avert tariffs by the Trump administration the Southeast Asian nation may face because of its large trade surplus with the United States. The March 5 document from the trade ministry features the schedule of Trade Minister Nguyen Hong Dien's trip to the United States this week. It also listed energy companies and government departments, from customs to tax, asked to send accompanying representatives. Last week the government said on its portal Dien, who is also in charge of energy and industry policy, would travel to the United States on Thursday to meet U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer. But it gave no details of possible deals or topics to be discussed. Officials have publicly indicated Vietnam's intention to buy U.S. liquefied natural gas for its fledgling industry and to possibly revise duties on several imports, from ethanol and LNG to agriculture products. https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/news/vietnam-to-sign-us-deals-as-trade-energy-officials-meet-document-shows/ar-AA1ABaq2

From Pattaya News A 19-year-old woman suffered severe injuries after falling from a 14th-floor balcony of a Pattaya condo following an argument with her foreign boyfriend. At 4:30 AM on March 10th, the Sawang Boriboon Rescue Center received a report of a person who had fallen from a height and sustained severe injuries at a condominium on Third Road in Pattaya. Upon receiving the report, rescuers immediately coordinated with Pattaya police to investigate the incident. At the scene, security guards were assisting the injured individual in the condominium’s garden near the entrance. The victim was identified only as Ms. Janejira, 19. Rescue workers provided first aid before transporting her to Pattaya City Hospital. A security guard told police that earlier in the evening, the victim had gone out with her foreign boyfriend. Shortly before the incident, they returned together and reportedly had an argument inside the condominium. While patrolling the area, the guard saw the victim standing on the 14th-floor balcony before she fell, landing on a tree in the garden before hitting the grass, sustaining severe injuries. The guard then called authorities for assistance. Police contacted the victim’s foreign boyfriend, who came down for questioning but appeared intoxicated and was incoherent. Authorities are continuing their investigation and will take legal action as necessary. https://thepattayanews.com/2025/03/11/young-woman-severely-injured-but-survives-after-falling-from-14th-floor-of-pattaya-condo-following-argument-with-foreign-boyfriend/

From Pattaya News Hotel Industry Demands Crackdown on Zero-Dollar Condos Thailand’s hotel industry is sounding the alarm over the rapid rise of “zero-dollar condos” and unregulated short-term room rentals on platforms like Airbnb, calling on the government to enforce stricter regulations and level the playing field. The Thai Hotels Association (THA) is leading the charge, urging mandatory registration for all short-term rental operators and tougher enforcement of existing laws to address what it calls unfair competition and growing security risks. The controversy centers on condominium owners—many reportedly Chinese nationals—who purchase multiple units in popular tourist areas like Bangkok’s Sukhumvit district, Pattaya, and Phuket, then list them for daily or weekly rentals at cut-rate prices. Dubbed “zero-dollar condos” due to their rock-bottom rates, these rentals undercut licensed hotels, which face higher operational costs and regulatory hurdles. The practice has sparked outrage among hoteliers and local residents alike, who say it disrupts communities and flouts Thai law. Under the Hotel Act of 2004, any property offering accommodation for less than 30 days must be licensed as a hotel—a requirement most condominiums fail to meet. Violators face fines of up to 20,000 baht (approximately $600 USD) plus an additional 10,000 baht per day until the activity ceases. Despite this, enforcement has been lax, allowing the short-term rental market to flourish. The THA estimates that of Thailand’s 1 million hotel rooms, half operate illegally, yet only a handful of cases have faced prosecution. “This is a crisis for our industry,” said Surapong Techaruvichit, an adviser to the THA. “These unregulated rentals don’t pay taxes, don’t follow safety standards, and hurt legitimate businesses that sustain jobs and tourism. We need decisive action now.” The association has proposed invoking emergency powers under Section 44 of Thailand’s interim constitution to swiftly shut down non-registered operators, a move it believes could slash the number of illegal rentals. https://thepattayanews.com/2025/03/11/thailands-hotel-industry-demands-crackdown-on-zero-dollar-condos-and-unregulated-airbnb-rentals/

Freshboy does but tacks on 10% fee.

Moses, I can accept and acknowledge an error. You are simply unable or unwilling, asking us to believe that you are infallible. Good luck with the charade. And it’s a shame because you have so much to offer otherwise.

The closing of the G-Zone massage shop has resulted in a transfer of talent to Freshboy. One of its more popular masseurs can now be found on stage in the PP2 bar along with another former coworker who moved over earlier this year.

The irony is overwhelming. Every time you post about Putin the rest of us experience factually incorrect information on this forum. 🫠

Wat Hua Lamphong is located on Rama 4 Road, adjacent to the MRT Blue ine stop at Samyan station. From The Nation A place where kindness and tradition come together In the heart of Bangkok, Wat Hua Lamphong stands as more than just a temple, as it is a place of charity and compassion. Known as the “Coffin Temple”, it is famous for its donation programme that helps provide proper funerals for those who pass away without family or financial support. Wat Hua Lamphong dates back to the reign of King Rama IV in the 19th century. Originally a small temple, it was renovated and expanded during King Rama V’s rule to serve the growing population in Bangkok. Today, the temple is an important spiritual site. The venue is closely linked to the Ruamkatanyu Foundation, which runs a 24-hour coffin-donation scheme. For 500 baht, visitors can sponsor a coffin for a person who would otherwise be buried without dignity. This act of giving, known as making merit, is an important part of Thai Buddhist culture, as it is believed to bring good karma to the donor and the deceased. The donation process is simple yet meaningful. Visitors fill out a form, receive a donation slip, and attach it to a coffin as a symbol of their support. They then take part in a short prayer ceremony and burn the slip as an offering, which many believe helps bring good fortune. Beyond coffin donations, the temple offers other ways to make merit. Visitors can feed cows to save them from slaughter, release birds for good luck, or melt wax to create large candles used in religious ceremonies. These small but symbolic acts are said to bring blessings and remove bad luck. For those seeking spiritual guidance, the temple is also home to fortune tellers who offer insights into the future. Open 24 hours a day, it welcomes both locals and tourists who wish to do good, reflect on life, or seek spiritual comfort. Whether you come to donate, pray, or simply observe, the temple offers a powerful reminder of the importance of kindness and giving. https://www.nationthailand.com/life/art-culture/40047203

@Moses, I agreed that your interpretation of the OP was correct. Thank you for bringing it to my attention. But you seem more interested in nitpicking for nitpicking’s sake. A wise man oncr counseled, “quit while your ahead because you only lose ground if you persist.”

From Pattaya News The new feeder bus service connecting Don Mueang Airport to Pattaya is now operational, offering a fast travel option for passengers. On March 8th, Deputy Transport Minister Mr. Surapong Piyachote presided over the inaugural journey of the new feeder bus service connecting Don Mueang Airport to Pattaya. Mr. Surapong stated that the launch of the new feeder bus service is part of the Thai government’s initiative to create seamless public transportation between airports and key tourist destinations. The project aims to boost tourism and economic activity by improving connectivity between major, secondary, and emerging travel destinations. Initially, three routes have been introduced: Pickup/drop-off points: Service Hall, Don Mueang Airport (near Terminal 1, North Side) BorKorSor Bus Stop, Sukhumvit Road (between North and Central Pattaya) Distance: 162 km Fare: 155 THB Travel time: 2.5 hours 8 trips daily (4 each way) Departing Don Mueang: 06:30, 10:30, 13:30, 17:30 Departing Pattaya: 07:00, 10:00, 14:30, 17:00 https://thepattayanews.com/2025/03/10/feeder-bus-service-from-don-mueang-to-pattaya-now-open/

From Pattaya Mail By Barry Kenyon Pre-entry digital arrival forms for all foreigners coming by air, land or sea await the starting pistol in several weeks time. But the subject has dropped out of the headlines even though many international visitors have already booked their flights and accommodation. There are increasing concerns in the international travel world about the continuing absence of the actual digital forms and the lack of precise detail. Several airlines and internet travelblogs have already indicated concern that time is short if visitors are to experience a smoother experience at immigration and a welcome modernization of the travel experience with enhanced safety and security. The new system, the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), is not technically an application for entry but a digital re-statement of the information formerly contained in the now defunct TM6 whose details were years ago scribbled by weary passengers about to arrive in Thailand. So the TDAC, to be accessed via the official Thai immigration website or mobile application, will need passport details, purpose of visit, accommodation address and contact information including a personal phone number and relevant email addresses. Group registrations by tour operators abroad may be allowed, but no confirmation as yet. The Ministry of Tourism and Sports says all foreigners – on every future trip here – will need to submit the digital TM6 form online. There are no exceptions for visa holders of any kind, apparently including permanent residents who don’t even have a visa but do need a re-entry permit. This has angered retirees, work permit holders and other longstayers who point out that the Thai authorities have that information anyway. Although the idea is to fill in the TDAC in advance of travel, there is provision for filling in the form in special kiosks on arrival at Thai airports or entry points. Thus the temporary conclusion is that airlines will not be refusing boarding to passengers who can’t show their received QR code as there’s an alternative. But nobody knows for sure. The main target of TDAC is obviously the many millions of international tourists who now receive 60 days visa exempt. When immigration officers currently stamp their passports, they have no idea of who they really are and where they will stay. A tiny, tiny number are refused entry if they have a criminal record here or are wanted by Interpol, but that’s about as far as checking goes. TDAC will rectify that issue, provided those filling in the form are honest, but there are currently no details on how to change the information online if a mistake is made or if the foreigner moves address whilst in Thailand. How the changes affect the current, post-arrival TM30 address form isn’t yet clear. Continues at https://www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/tm6-requirement-for-all-foreigners-creeping-towards-may-1-493207

Some do, some don’t. I wouldn’t be inclined to trust the quality. Best practice is to BYOC.

So happy to hear from you again, Dead_On_Arrival. You have a wonderful gift for winning an audience. Keep hitting those home runs!

From The Nation Interpol has arrested a Moroccan man in Turkey for the alleged murder of his Thai LGBTQ lover in Chiang Mai in early December last year. The suspect is believed to have fled the kingdom immediately after the incident. Muang Chiang Mai Police Chief Pol Col Pratchaya Thisala confirmed on Thursday that Bilal Chenfinu, 30, was apprehended by Interpol officers at a hotel in Turkey. Pratchaya stated that the foreign division of the Royal Thai Police would be working with Turkish authorities to extradite Chenfinu back to Thailand. The suspect is wanted under an arrest warrant issued by the Chiang Mai Court for the murder of Thitikarn (surname withheld) on December 4, 2024. Thitikarn, a beauty surgeon at a clinic in Chiang Mai, was found dead on December 6. Police reviewed security camera footage and discovered that Chenfinu spent the night with Thitikarn in the building where the body was found on the evening of December 4. The footage showed Chenfinu driving Thitikarn’s car from the building at 2 am on December 5 and heading towards Chiang Mai International Airport. Chenfinu then flew out of Thailand on AirAsia Flight FD515 at 6 am on December 5. https://www.nationthailand.com/news/general/40046517